Encouragement on SermonAudio

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: 1 Thessalonians 5 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanier https://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360

On this Let's Talk Pastor Rocky Stevenson of Benoni Bible Church, is joined with Kevin Swanson from Generations Media Network in the USA, and they emphasise the urgent need for Christian men to embrace spiritual strength and courage in the face of cultural decline. Drawing from the book of Joshua, it calls fathers to lead their households with decisive faith and to actively engage in a worldview battle against secular humanism. The discussion highlights the breakdown of family and society due to a loss of biblical manhood, urging men to reject comfort and instead fight for the kingdom of God. It encourages the raising of the next generation through intentional discipleship and father-son mentorship. Ultimately, the podcast asserts that true strength comes from relying on God's presence to stand firm in truth and love.

The sermon introduces the first of eight visions in the book of Zechariah, defining resilience as an inner strength grounded in trust that God remains in control. It contrasts Old Testament revelations through dreams and visions with the sufficiency of Scripture in the current dispensation, emphasizing that new supernatural experiences are unnecessary for believers. The speaker explains that biblical understanding requires the illumination of the Holy Spirit, which was not available to prophets before the New Covenant. By examining Zechariah 1:8-13, the message highlights how God uses symbolic imagery to remind His people of His sovereignty and mercy despite their hardships. This study aims to encourage faithfulness and steady trust in God's plan during times of difficulty.

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 5 Episode 184 Trust and Praise out of Sorrow: Waiting Psalm 59 #morningreflections #strength #wisdom #growth #struggle

This study explores the profound reality of believers possessing all spiritual blessings in heavenly places through their union with Christ. It contrasts the transient nature of material prosperity with the eternal security of God's spiritual gifts, emphasizing that these blessings are irrevocable and comprehensive. The exposition highlights the source of these blessings in the Father, the means in the Son, and the application by the Spirit, covering past election, present redemption, and future inheritance. The tone is triumphant and pastoral, encouraging believers to find their identity and sufficiency in Christ rather than in worldly circumstances. The message concludes with an exhortation to respond with praise and to set one's affections on eternal things, recognizing that the Christian's true wealth is secure in glory.

In this special update, Dave Jenkins announces that Reading the Bible Daily with Dave will take a break through the end of 2026 and return, Lord willing, on January 1, 2027. Dave thanks listeners for joining him in the journey through God's Word and encourages Christians to remain grounded in Scripture during the break. The archive now contains 771 episodes, covering Genesis through Isaiah 11, and offers a helpful resource for continued Bible reading and study.

This episode addresses publicly reported allegations connected to Gor Davyy, 5F Church, and Katherine Krick. It calls Christians to take reports of abuse seriously, reject spiritual manipulation, and test every teaching and claimed spiritual authority by Scripture. The episode also presents the gospel of Jesus Christ and urges listeners to seek a faithful local church led by biblically qualified elders. Content advisory: This episode discusses reported sexual-abuse allegations and spiritual abuse. For more from Dawn Hill, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/dawn-hill/

The writer's mention of David's faith points to both its passive and active aspects. First, the passive aspect is highlighted at his anointing, as God selects David based on the condition of his heart (a heart given to David by God) rather than outward appearance, a human criterion. Likewise, David's example underscores that faith is a passive gift from God that transforms believers, enabling them to live in obedience and reflect His glory. Ultimately, we are encouraged to trust in God's sovereign choice and to offer our lives as living sacrifices, recognizing that our worth and destiny are eternally established solely on the fact that we are the Lord's beloved.

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: 1 Thessalonians 4 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanier https://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360

The sermon examines the high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17, focusing specifically on the petitions for unity and glory among believers. It argues that Jesus prays for the church to be one in the same manner that the Father and Son are one, emphasizing a shared purpose and identity rather than the loss of individual personality. The message highlights that this divine unity serves as a witness to the world, demonstrating that the Father sent the Son. Furthermore, the text explores the concept of glory, defining it as the fulfillment of God's will and the reflection of Christ's life through the church. The tone is instructional and meditative, encouraging the congregation to study the context of these verses to deepen their understanding of their relationship with God and one another.

This sermon explores the practical application of trusting God's sovereignty during both prosperous and challenging seasons, using the speaker's personal experiences of business loss and family transition as primary illustrations. The message anchors its theological argument in the life of Abraham, specifically highlighting Genesis 15:6 as the key to understanding justification by faith and the necessity of patience in waiting for God's promises. It emphasizes that faith involves intellectual belief, volitional submission, and active obedience, urging listeners to release their grip on control and fear. The speaker contrasts human planning with divine order, citing examples from Genesis and Ruth to demonstrate that God's long-term purposes often require surrendering immediate desires. The tone is pastoral and encouraging, concluding with a call to place personal fears and hopes on the altar of God, trusting that His character remains constant even when circumstances are unknown.

The sermon examines Genesis 2:18-25 to articulate the divine intent behind the creation of woman as a helpmeet and corresponding counterpart to man. It emphasizes that Genesis 2 provides a detailed expansion of the creation account in Genesis 1, refuting the notion of a second creation. The central message highlights that woman was formed by God from man's rib to complete him, establishing a unique partnership defined by relationship, union, and commitment. The preacher contrasts this biblical design with modern cultural views that undermine these roles, urging believers to adhere to Scripture's definition of gender and marriage. The tone is instructional and pastoral, encouraging both men and women to find spiritual and emotional stability by remaining within the boundaries God established for their respective roles.

This sermon examines the revival under King Hezekiah as recorded in 2 Chronicles, highlighting how God moved powerfully despite the widespread apostasy and wickedness of Judah. The message emphasizes that true revival begins with the realization of one's spiritual condition and the reestablishment of communion with God, leading to a unified congregation prepared for worship. It underscores the importance of inviting those who are distant from God, noting that Hezekiah's compassion for the ceremonially unclean northern tribes demonstrates that God values a contrite heart over ritual perfection. The preacher encourages believers to pray for revival, trust in God's ability to move suddenly, and actively reach out to backslidden loved ones with the assurance of God's mercy.

This sermon explores the concept of piety, defined as devoted reverence toward God that results in worship, trust, and obedience. The central message focuses on three specific pious acts outlined in Matthew 6: giving, prayer, and fasting, emphasizing that these should be voluntary responses to God's character rather than performances for human approval. The teaching highlights that giving is a cheerful submission that glorifies God, prayer must be meaningful and rooted in the recognition of God's holiness and kingdom, and fasting serves to humble the believer before the Lord. The preacher encourages the congregation to view these disciplines not as bartering with God, but as daily costs of a Christian life that flows from a heart transformed by grace.

In Part 9 of the Revelation Unraveled series, Pastor Byron Chesney examines Christ's message to the church at Sardis in Revelation 3:1–6. Sardis had a reputation for being alive, but Christ saw the true condition of the church and declared, "thou art dead." This message considers the danger of outward religion without inward spiritual life, Christ's call to be watchful, remember, hold fast, and repent, and the encouragement given to the faithful few who had not defiled their garments. The message reminds us that reputation is what people think we are, but reality is what Jesus knows we are.

Lesson 9 - Missions and Evangelism in Europe | The Ministers' Table | Philipp Frei The Ministers' Table is a time for pastors, preachers, and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement, and honest, across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Lesson 8 - Switched On - The Art of being Industrial | The Ministers Table| Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table is a time for pastors, preachers, and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement, and honest, across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Lesson 7 - Personal Finance| The Ministers Table | Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table is a time for pastors, preachers, and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement, and honest, across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Lesson 6 - Stewardship of the Body - Part 2| The Ministers Table | Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table is a time for pastors, preachers, and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement, and honest, across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

The sermon argues that God no longer communicates through dreams or visions in the current dispensation, relying instead on the sufficiency of Scripture. Drawing from Hebrews 1:1 and 2 Peter 1:19, the speaker asserts that divine revelation was confined to past ages and that believers should not seek new supernatural experiences. The text categorizes dreams into three sources: divine origin in the Old Testament, natural psychological processes, and demonic deception by false prophets. By citing Jeremiah 23, the message warns against trusting subjective spiritual encounters that contradict or add to the Bible. Ultimately, the teaching encourages listeners to reject modern claims of prophetic dreams and remain firmly grounded in the written Word.

Lesson 10 - Bi-Vocational Ministry | The Ministers' Table | Philipp Frei The Ministers' Table is a time for pastors, preachers, and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement, and honest, across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

This sermon examines the voyage of Paul to Rome in Acts 27, emphasizing that God's sovereign providence governs all circumstances, including storms and apparent hindrances. The text argues that even when human resources are exhausted and hope seems lost, God remains in control, using trials to teach reliance and patience rather than allowing the enemy to thwart His will. Paul's confidence in the angelic promise serves as a model for believers to anchor their hope in Christ's faithfulness rather than in their own abilities or favorable conditions. The message encourages Christians to view adversity not as a deviation from God's plan, but as a means by which He reveals His glory and strengthens the faith of His people. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a steadfast trust in God's character, asserting that He works all things together for the good of those who love Him.

The return of Jesus with parables accompanying, encouraging His people to be ready. The setting up of the long-awaited Kingdom.

This sermon explores the spiritual sustenance found in doing the Father's will, contrasting the disciples' focus on physical hunger with Christ's focus on eternal purpose. The central message emphasizes that true nourishment for believers comes from obedience and engagement in God's redemptive work, rather than from worldly comforts or visible results. The preacher highlights the urgency of the present moment, urging the audience to recognize that the spiritual harvest is already ripe and requires immediate attention rather than delayed action. By examining the concepts of shared joy between sowers and reapers and the inheritance of previous labor, the message encourages humility and perseverance in evangelism. The tone is both convicting and encouraging, challenging listeners to look beyond their immediate circumstances to see the broader scope of God's saving work and to respond with faith and action.

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 5 Episode 183 Trust and Praise out of Sorrow: Justice Psalm 59 #morningreflections #strength #wisdom #growth #struggle

The sermon addresses the increasing moral darkness of contemporary society, citing specific examples of cultural shifts and the silence of the church as evidence of a world in decline. It emphasizes that the primary responsibility of believers is to let the light of Christ shine brightly through sincere testimony and righteous conduct, rather than conforming to worldly standards. The message calls for a return to sound doctrine, personal Bible study, and active evangelism, urging Christians to stand firm against wickedness with courage and love. By contrasting the futile efforts of the world with the eternal security found in Jesus, the speaker encourages the congregation to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, trusting that their distinct witness will impact those around them.

The sermon explores the concept of beauty as a divine hallmark of God's creation, arguing that true beauty is defined by appropriateness, symmetry, and harmony rather than mere aesthetic preference. By examining scientific principles such as the structure of peacock feathers and the mathematical elegance of nature, the speaker illustrates how these features point to an intelligent Designer rather than random evolution. The message contrasts the temporary satisfaction found in earthly beauty with the eternal longing for divine presence, citing Psalm 27 and C.S. Lewis to emphasize that only God offers lasting fulfillment. Furthermore, the sermon addresses the theological paradox of the cross, explaining how the ugliness of Christ's sacrifice becomes the ultimate source of beauty and salvation for believers. Ultimately, the speaker encourages the audience to view the natural world as a witness to God's care and to recognize their own transformation into Christ's image as a process of becoming more beautiful in His eyes.

This sermon explores the causes of a heavy heart by examining biblical figures like Esau, David, Ahab, and Naomi who experienced rejection, regret, unfulfilled expectations, and loss. It identifies the primary remedy for such sorrow as receiving a good word from God's Word, particularly through Psalms and Proverbs. The preacher emphasizes that choosing joy and maintaining a merry heart acts as spiritual medicine that sustains the spirit and improves physical health. Believers are encouraged to reject negative influences and instead focus on the hope of eternity and God's providence. Ultimately, the message calls for an intentional choice to find gladness in Scripture rather than dwelling in despair.

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: 1 Thessalonians 3 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanier https://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360

Lesson 5 - Stewardship of the Body | The Ministers Table | Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table has been established as a time for pastors, preachers and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement and honest across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Lesson 4 - Faithfulness | The Ministers Table | Philipp Frei The Ministers' Table has been established as a time for pastors, preachers and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement and honest across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Lesson 3 - Arise and Build | The Ministers Table | Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table has been established as a time for pastors, preachers and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement and honest across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Lesson 2 - The Weight of Name | The Ministers Table | Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table has been established as a time for pastors, preachers and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement and honest across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

The Ministers' Table | Lesson 1 - Built Not Born | Dr B.J. Stagner The Ministers' Table has been established as a time for pastors, preachers and men preparing for ministry to come together for biblical instruction, practical education, encouragement and honest across-the-table conversation. Our objective is not simply to provide another preaching meeting, but to strengthen the men behind the ministry—helping them develop the character, discipline, wisdom and practical ability necessary to serve faithfully and effectively. This year's forum will run throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with both morning and afternoon sessions. Subjects will include: Built, Not Born: The Deliberate Formation of a Man The Weight of a Name: Character, Reputation and Responsibility Arise and Build: Integrity, Investment and Initiative Faithfulness: Moving from Potential to Proven Dependability The Stewardship of the Body: Discipline, Capacity and Ministerial Longevity Personal Finance and Financial Responsibility Bi-Vocational Ministry ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

This sermon examines the death of Jacob in Genesis 49, highlighting how the patriarch concludes his life with profound faith and peace despite a history of struggle. The central message emphasizes that dying well involves setting one's house in order, specifically by making clear arrangements for burial to identify with God's promises and forefathers. The phrase "gathered unto his people" is explored as a theological pointer to the resurrection and the believer's future reunion with the spiritual family in heaven. The tone is pastoral and comforting, encouraging listeners to trust in Christ's provision for forgiveness and eternal life, thereby facing death with the peace that surpasses understanding rather than anxiety.

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 5 Episode 182 Trust and Praise out of Sorrow: Innocence Psalm 59 #morningreflections #strength #wisdom #growth #struggle

This sermon explores the spiritual realities behind earthly events through an exegesis of Daniel chapter 10. It highlights how persistent prayer and humility initiate divine intervention, even when delayed by unseen angelic conflicts. The text emphasizes that God hears prayers from the moment the heart is set to understand His will, regardless of immediate visible results. By connecting Daniel's experience with historical opposition in Ezra, the message illustrates the ongoing nature of spiritual warfare affecting God's people. Ultimately, the teaching encourages believers to view prayer as a vital expression of relationship with God, grounded in the assurance that they are greatly loved and sustained by His sovereignty.

How do you view the world? Do you view the world through the lens of culture? Today, we discuss having a biblical worldview. Today, we draw encouragement from the words of Isaiah to those who are in captivity. The encouragement he gives them is encouragement for us as we look at the world today.

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: 1 Thessalonians 2 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanier https://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 5 Episode 181 Trust and Praise out of Sorrow: Intro Psalm 59 #morningreflections #strength #wisdom #growth #struggle

Have you ever stepped into a room and thought about how many businesses are represented all around you? Hundreds of businesses are represented in just your living room—from the wood in the floor to the fabric of the couch, or even the individual technology components in your air conditioning or smartphone. Behind each of those businesses is a CEO, or chief executive officer. On today's show, Dr. Mark Hamby and Molly Mayo are joined by Jonathan Dickinson, owner of The CEO Kid, to discuss his heart for raising up the next generation to succeed in business. On the show, the team discusses entrepreneurs in the Bible, successful business principles, and how character growth is at the heart of The CEO Kid curriculum.

Justin Peters examines several claims made by Bill Johnson concerning the presence of God, the Holy Spirit's work in believers, Peter's shadow, miraculous healing, and "bringing heaven to earth." Opening Scripture in context, Justin contrasts vague spiritual claims with the clear teaching of God's Word and calls Christians to practice biblical discernment. For more from Justin Peters, visit his Servants of Grace page: https://servantsofgrace.org/justin-peters-sound-theology/ This episode first appeared on Justin's YouTube channel and is posted here with his permission: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNbWniF07ys

The sermon explores the comforting presence of God during trials by examining Psalm 23:4 and the symbolism of the shepherd's rod and staff. It interprets the rod as a representation of divine authority, illustrated through Moses' confrontation with Pharaoh, and the staff as a tool for guidance and protection that lifts believers from distress. The message connects these physical metaphors to the spiritual reality of Scripture, which serves as God's authoritative word to correct, instruct, and sustain faith. Drawing on Martin Luther's insights, it emphasizes that believers rely on this divine word rather than visible signs to navigate life's difficulties. Ultimately, the teaching encourages trust in God's sufficient care and protection through His word and the redemptive work of Christ.

Pastor Brian continues his challenge and encouragement as we fight the Spiritual battle we are all in.

The sermon explores the theological necessity of weakness and affliction as divine tools to prevent pride and foster humility in believers. Drawing primarily from 2 Corinthians 12, it contrasts the boasting of false teachers in spiritual revelations with Paul's reliance on God's sufficient grace amidst his thorn in the flesh. The preacher illustrates this principle through the biblical examples of King Uzziah and Jesus Christ, demonstrating that strength often leads to destruction while weakness allows Christ's power to rest upon the believer. It encourages Christians to view their trials not as random misfortunes but as sovereign acts of God designed to sustain them with grace. Ultimately, the message calls for a response of faith and prayer, recognizing that enduring suffering with humility magnifies Christ rather than self.

This sermon explores the final chapter of Joel, highlighting three key aspects of God's character: His foretold faithfulness to covenant promises, His revealed retribution against enemies, and His performed promises of restoration. Using John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress as an illustration, the message emphasizes that believers possess a key called Promise to overcome doubt and despair. The exposition details the Valley of Jehoshaphat as the place of divine judgment where God avenges His people and defeats wicked nations. Ultimately, the text points to the certainty of God's faithfulness, encouraging listeners to anchor their hope in Christ and cling to the unchangeable nature of His word.

The sermon exhorts believers to intentionally redeem their time by living in alignment with God's will, emphasizing that this practice is a natural result of spiritual redemption. It argues that understanding divine purpose requires diligent engagement with Scripture rather than subjective feelings or dreams. True wisdom is demonstrated through practical obedience in daily relationships and conduct, serving as a visible witness to the world. The message warns against complacency, asserting that a lack of concern for holy living indicates a lack of genuine salvation. Ultimately, it encourages believers to trust in God's grace to restore wasted years and use their remaining time for His glory.

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: 2 Samuel 6 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanierhttps://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360